Manitowoc Unveils New Potain MR 309 & MR 329 Tower Cranes
Manitowoc recently launched its new Potain MR 309 and MR 329 luffing-jib tower cranes, which come in 16- and 25-tonne (17.6- and 27.6-U.S.-ton) versions for high-rise construction sites. Both cranes have a 60-metre (197-foot) jib and can lift approximately 3.35 t (3.7 U.S. t) at the tip, slightly less in the 25-t versions. However, the cranes’ different pivot and mast configurations provide them with differing load curves and heights under pivot.
The new MR 309 and MR 329 use the latest Potain Crane Control System (CCS), which reduces setup time on the work site and gives operators intuitive control. Potain CCS has a graphical interface with jog dial navigation, ergonomic controls, and parts in common with other Potain, Manitowoc, and Grove cranes. The MR 309 and MR 329 also use the new Potain Connect telematics system for updated remote fleet management, analytics, diagnostics, and more.
Design Informed By Customer Feedback
End users utilising Manitowoc’s Voice of the Customer process requested more robust load charts, faster crane commissioning, and other improvements. The MR 309 has a 2-m (6.6-ft) pivot and mast configuration, a height under pivot of 49 m (161 ft), and a maximum capacity of 4.3 t (4.74 U.S. t) at 55 m (180.4 ft). The MR 329’s longer 2.4-m (8-ft) pivot and mast arrangement yields a height under pivot of 55.2 m (181 ft) and a greater max capacity of 4.7 t (5.2 U.S. t) at 55 m.
"We've received excellent feedback since the debut of the MR 229, particularly for its ease of erection, minimized out-of-service radius, and the integration of CCS,” says Thibaut Le Besnerais, vice president of marketing and development at Manitowoc. “Furthermore, customers have praised the seamless operation of the crane from the Ultraview CCS cab. With these achievements in mind, we have high expectations for the MR 309 and MR 329 as they round out this innovative new generation of Potain luffing-jib cranes.”
Easier Crane Setup
Manitowoc significantly shortened the MR 309 and MR 329’s out-of-service radius to 9.5 m to 12 m (31.2 to 39.4 ft). This, along with reduced anchorage frame requirements, makes the cranes more efficient and productive on high-rise sites where oversailing is not allowed. Reduced wind vane spans also simplify setup where space is at a premium.
The MR 309 and MR 329’s jib can be attached horizontally in sections; the cranes’ redesigned luffing mechanism helps to ease the assembly process. Slinging rings and a self-centering system help position the counter-jib ballast, which is installed at working height.
Workers installing, inspecting, and maintaining the new Potain cranes will appreciate their thoughtfully designed access platforms, steps, and jib-end baskets. A Potain Cab-In elevator gives workers—and the operator—safe, convenient transport to and from the crane platform.
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Source: Manitowoc